strategic communication plan - united states · pdf file1 centennial of naval aviation...

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CENTENNIAL OF NAVAL AVIATION

“CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF NAVY, MARINE CORPS, AND COAST GUARD AVIATION”

STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION PLAN July 2010-December 2011

CONTACT:

LCDR Alli Myrick-Ellison, CONA PAO, cell (858) 353-3873

BACKGROUND:

In 2011, the Department of the Navy will recognize the 100th anniversary of Naval

Aviation. On 8 May 1911, Navy Capt. Washington Irving Chambers, Officer in Charge

of Aviation, requisitioned the Navy’s first aircraft from aviator and inventor Glenn H.

Curtiss. After 100 years, Naval Aviation has grown from a tactical afterthought and

support capability to a primary instrument of our national security. From the Curtiss A-1

Triad, to the F/A-18 Superhornet, from the USS LANGLEY (CV 1) to the USS

GEORGE H. W. BUSH (CVN 77), Naval Aviation has scored an impressive list of

achievements in peace and war. The first crossing of the Atlantic by air, victory at the

Battle of Midway, and the first American in space, to name a few, put Naval Aviation at

the forefront of our national destiny. It is appropriate that during the Centennial year of

Naval Aviation, Department of Navy, Coast Guard personnel, the American public, and

friends and Allies overseas be afforded the opportunity to recognize the historic

achievements of Naval Aviation and become acquainted with its rich and colorful

heritage. Commander, Naval Air Forces is the executive agent for planning and executing

all events associated with the 100th

Anniversary of Naval Aviation and has formally

established a Centennial of Naval Aviation Task Force with representation from those

organizations associated with Naval Aviation to synchronize activities throughout

calendar year 2011. The Centennial of Naval Aviation affords the opportunity to reaffirm

to the American public that their country’s security is assured by a strong Navy, Marine

Corps, and Coast Guard. It will honor our legacy and recognize the ongoing contributions

of Naval Aviation to our country’s safety, security, and prosperity.

INTENT:

Increase American public’s confidence in Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast

Guard’s ability to assure national security.

Increase pride and esprit de corps among men and women in Navy, Marine Corps,

and Coast Guard aviation and their families thereby positively affecting retention.

Increase pride and support among Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard

veterans.

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Increase congressional support for current and future Navy, Marine Corps, and

Coast Guard Aviation endeavors.

Attract high-quality men and women to serve in Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast

Guard Aviation and garner support from their families.

Maintain and/or increase support from key organizations, industry stakeholders,

and local communities.

Strengthen partnership with friends and allies overseas.

ENABLING OBJECTIVES:

Honor a century of mission-ready men and women in Navy, Marine Corps, and

Coast Guard Aviation and recognize Naval Aviation achievements, heritage, and

progress.

Highlight Naval Aviation’s singularity and reputation for excellence. Emphasize

the unique aspects of Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard Aviation that set

them apart from the other services.

Highlight Naval Aviation’s critical role in the Maritime Strategy.

Highlight the future of Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard Aviation and its

requirements.

STRATEGY:

Formally brand 2011 as the Centennial of Naval Aviation banner year, blanketing

all outreach activities with the Centennial of Naval Aviation theme.

Use regional and national mainstream media to engage internal and external key

audiences.

Use new/emerging media to engage internal and external key audiences.

Use internal media outlets to engage internal audiences.

Engage key audiences through influencers within those key audiences who are

informed enough to be able to articulate core messages (i.e. retired flag officers,

notable veteran naval aviators, industry and business leaders, office-holders in

veterans’ and support organizations).

Engage key audiences through conferences, symposiums, base tours, receptions,

community outreach activities or other appropriate functions.

KEY AUDIENCES / HIGH-PRIORITY TARGETS

INTERNAL

1. Sailors and their families.

2. Marines and their families

3. Coast Guard personnel and their families

EXTERNAL

4. Veterans

5. Prospective Sailors, Marines, Coast Guard personnel and their families

6. Congress

7. Support/key organizations

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8. Allied naval forces

9. Industry stakeholders

10. Local community members

11. American public

CORE MESSAGES:

(C-1) Naval Aviation has remained a leader in innovation and heroism for one hundred

years. From the Curtiss A-1 Triad, to the F/A-18 Superhornet, from the USS LANGLEY

(CV 1) to the USS GEORGE H. W. BUSH (CVN 77), Naval Aviation has scored an

impressive list of achievements in peace and war. The first crossing of the Atlantic by air,

victory at the Battle of Midway, the first life rescued by helicopter at sea, and the first

American in space, to name a few, put Naval Aviation at the forefront of our national

destiny.

(C-2) Naval Aviation contributes to each core component of the Maritime Strategy;

forward presence, deterrence, sea control, power projection, maritime security, and

humanitarian assistance/disaster relief. U.S. Naval Aviation is an unrivaled maritime

force. No other nation has the comparable aircraft, weapons, systems, or personnel to

conduct operations as successfully using such a wide variety of capabilities.

(C-3) We proudly honor our Naval Aviation heritage and courageous forerunners who

greatly inspire the men and women of today’s Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. Our

hope is the Centennial celebration will inspire others to serve in their wake.

(C-4) As we commemorate the past 100 years of progress and achievement in Naval

Aviation, we are particularly grateful for our long and cherished friendships with local

communities, regions, and global neighbors.

(C-5) We deeply appreciate the sustained support from our service members, their

families, our government, the American public, and friends and allies overseas. We

cannot continue functioning as the most capable Naval air force in the world without this

support.

(C-6) From its inception, Naval Aviation has been a “Global Force for Good.” Naval

Aviation is a symbol of power, a force for stability in an increasingly unstable and

interconnected world. Naval Aviation involves everything from engaging in combat and

warfare support, to keeping waterways safe and open for global commerce, to deterring

sea piracy and drug trafficking. And when called upon, it provides humanitarian

assistance and disaster relief anywhere, anytime – to help American citizens and citizens

of the world. Exceptional people, leading technology, and incredible capabilities all

focused on making the world a better place.

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Appendices

Appendix A: Core Elements Matrix

Appendix B: Talking Points

Appendix C: Questions and Answers

Appendix D: Sample Press Release

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APPENDIX A: CORE ELEMENTS MATRIX 1. Purpose. This core elements matrix has been developed to identify specific tactics, assign responsibilities and provide a working

timeline for the Centennial of Naval Aviation commemoration communication activities.

2. Matrix:

Date Tactic POC Targets Message / Status / Notes

Summer 2010 Art Museum Curator Embark CNAF PAO External- Art Community - Messages C-3,C-4

- Awareness of NHHC art

available for loan to museums

Fall 2010 The Hook- magazine article CNAF Internal- Aviators - Include list of events

- Messages C-4, C-6

Fall 2010 Update Blue Angels narrator

script

CNAF

Internal- SM’s and

Families

External- General Public

- Messages C-1, C-3, C-4, C-5,

C-6

Fall 2010 Wings of Gold CNAF Internal- Aviators

- Upcoming events

- Messages C-4, C-6

9-12 SEP 2010 Tailhook Reunion Tailhook POC Internal – Aviators

External- Veterans

- Introduce CONA

- Seek support from current and

former aviators

11 SEP 2010 Christening of USS

Washington Chambers (T-

AKE 11)

PEO Ships PAO Internal- Navy families


- Messages C-1, C-3, C-6

OCT 2010 Army- Navy Spirit Spot

Aviation candidate/ historical

CNAL PAO Internal- Navy families

External- Military

enthusiasts

- The Midshipmen are the

future leaders of the Naval

Forces.

12 NOV 2010 Eugene Ely Commemoration

Ceremony@HM-14 Hangar

CNAL PAO,

Navy League

Internal- CNO, senior

leadership, service

members

External- Industry business

- Ceremony will commemorate

Eugene Ely’s flight from USS

Birmingham (CL-2) on Nov

14th, 1910.

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leaders, general public - Message C-1

NOV 2010 Aviation Dominance Rhumb

Lines

Week 1- CONA

Week 2- JSF (Jax testing)

Week 3- Maritime strategy

CNAF

CHINFO (OI-5)

Internal-Navy leadership - Aviation dominance plays a

key role in the Maritime

Security Strategy.

- All messages

NOV 2010 All Hands- photos and article CHINFO/DMA

CNAF, CONA

Internal- SMs, Navy

leaders

External- Partner nations’

navies

- Historical photos and sidebar

on history of aircraft carriers.

- List of Tier 1 events.

- Profile Sailors in aviation

ratings (possibly with naval

aviation legacies)

- Messages C-1, C-2

NOV 2010 CNAF/CONA Social

MediaBloggers Roundtable

CNAF PAO

CHINFO (OI-5)

DMA

Internal-Navy service

members

External- Military

Enthusiasts

- Conduct roundtable with

DOD Bloggers roundtable,

Navy Live, or Navy Institute

- Messages C-1, C-6

DEC 2010 CNAF/CONA Social Media CNAF PAO Internal-Navy service

members

External- Military

Enthusiasts

- Warbird radio interview with

CONA Director about

upcoming events

JAN 2011 Ronald Reagan’s 100th

Birthday

RGN PAO Internal- CVN 76 Alumni

External- Reagan

Enthusiasts


Winter 2011 The Hook -– magazine article CNAF Internal- Aviators - Showcase historical photos

and articles.

- Messages C-4, C-6

Winter 2011 Approach- magazine article CNAF Internal- Aviators - Showcase historical safety

record of Naval Aviation and

role of the maintainers in

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keeping it safe.

- Messages C-1, C-5

Winter 2011 Naval Air Forces video CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families


- 3-5 minute video for

distribution to regional events

- Messages C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4

- Potential for 30 second and 60

second PSA’s

JAN/FEB 2011 Naval Aviation News CONA Internal- Aviators

External- Military

Enthusiasts

- Early years of Naval Aviation

article (highlighting specific

historical dates)1911-1936


Winter 2011 Wings of Gold Editors Internal- Aviators

External- Military

Enthusiasts

- Historical link with bases and

communities. Pre-WWII


JAN 2011 CNAF/CONA Social Media CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families


- Feature article on start of

naval aviation

- Recap of previous events

JAN 2011 Ronald Reagan’s 100th

Birthday

RGN PAO Internal- CVN 76 Alumni

External- Reagan

Enthusiasts


22-29 JAN 2011 Tampa Navy Week and

Gasparilla Pirate Festival

NAVCO Internal- FL service

members

External- FL residents and

visitors

- Message C-4

FEB 2011 Aerial Review (250+ Airplane

Flyover )

CONA Internal- SM’s and

Families



FEB 2011 CNAF/CONA Social Media CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families


- Feature article on Christenson

Family Aviation Legacy


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10-13 FEB 2011 San Diego Kick-off CONA Internal- SM’s and

Families

External- Key Decision

Makers

- Donor Reception at Air and

Space Museum

- Kickoff Gala aboard USS

MIDWAY


MAR 2011 CNAF/CONA Social Media CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families


- Feature article on other legacy

families, including aircrews

and maintainers

12-20 MAR 2011 Austin Navy Week and Rodeo

Austin

NAVCO Internal- TX service

members

External- TX residents

- Message C-4

19-27 MAR 2011 Jackson Navy Week & NAS

Meridian Air Show (Tier 1)

NAVCO, Base

PAOs

Internal- MS service

members

External- Mississippi

residents and visitors

- Message C-4

- Feature article on history of

Air Station and surrounding

community

Spring 2011 The Hook - magazine article Editors Internal- Aviators

External- Military

Enthusiasts

- Showcase historical photos

and articles.

- Messages C-4, C-6

Spring 2011 DoD Bloggers Round Table CHINFO External-General Public - Messages C-2, C-5, and past

service as an indicator of

future needs.

MAR/APR 2011 Naval Aviation News CONA Internal- Aviators

External- Military

Enthusiasts

- WWII/ Midway article

(highlighting specific

historical dates 1937-1961)

- Messages C-2, C-3

Spring 2011 Wings of Gold Editors Internal- Aviators

External- Military

Enthusiasts

- Messages C-4, C-6

APR 2011 CNAF/CONA Social Media CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families

- Feature article on WWII

aviators and air crews,

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External- General Public highlight family heritage

9-10 APR 2011 NAS Corpus Christi Salute to

100 Years of Naval Aviation

(Tier 1)

Base PAOs Internal- TX service

members


- Message C-4



community

15-17 APR 2011 NAS Ft. Worth JRB Air Power

(Tier 1)

Base PAOs Internal- TX service

members


- Message C-4



community

23 APR – 3 MAY

2011

Ft. Lauderdale Fleet Week and

Beachfest

NAVCO Internal- FL service

members

External- FL residents

- Message C-4

- Feature article about Navy’s

relationship with Port

Everglades

30 APR- 1 MAY

2011

MCAS Beaufort Air Show

(Tier 1)

Base PAOs Internal- SC service

members

External- SC residents



community

- Message C-4

MAY 2011 Marine Week St. Louis

(Tier 1)

Base PAOs Internal- MO service

members

External- MO residents


MAY 2011 All Hands CONA PAO Internal- SMs, Navy

leaders

External- Partner nations’

navies

- Historical Timeline

- Possible Aerial Review

story/photos

MAY 2011 Birth of Naval Aviation

Ceremony aboard an Aircraft

Carrier (CVN-TBD)

CNAF/CNAL

PAOs, Carrier

PAO

Internal- DVs, Aviators

External- Former Aviators,

Industry leaders, VA/NC

Residents, Mayors (OLF)

- Direct tie to Battle of Midway

- Messages C-1

May 2011 25th Anniversary of “Top

Gun” Embark

NAVINFO Internal-SM’s and Families


- Embark actors and producers

from “Top Gun” and PACOM

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(TBD)

- Highlight how much Naval

Aviation has changed since

1986


MAY 2011 CNAF/CONA Social Media CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families


- Feature article about influence

of airpower during WWII and

battle of Midway


MAY 2011 Rhumb Lines- Battle of

Midway Commemoration

CNAF PAO

NHHC

Internal- Navy Leaders

External- Military

Enthusiasts


2-8 MAY 2011 Denver Navy Week and Cinco

de Mayo

NAVCO Internal- CO service

members

External- CO residents


3-9 MAY 2011 Centennial of Naval Aviation

Week Pensacola (Tier 1)

Region PAO Internal- FL service

members


- Message C-4



community

5-11 MAY 2011 New Orleans Navy Week &

Air Show (Tier 1)

NAVCO, Base

PAOs

Internal-LA service

members

External- LA residents

- Messages C-1,C-4, C-5

13-15 MAY 2011 MCAS New River Air Show

(Tier 1)

Base PAOs Internal- WI service

members

External- WI residents



community

- Message C-4

20-22 MAY 2011 DoD Joint Services Open

House (Tier 1)

Base PAOs Internal- MD service

members

External- MD residents

- Messages C-2, C-5, and past


future needs.

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20-22 MAY 2011 DoD Joint Services Open

House

Base PAOs Internal- VA/DC/MD

service members

External- VA/DC/MD

residents

- Messages C-2, C-5, and past


future needs.

22 MAY – 2 JUN

2011

NY Fleet Week & Jones Beach

Air Show (Tier 1)

NAVCO Internal- NY service

members

External- NY residents


22 MAY - 6 JUN

2011

Portland Fleet Week and Rose

Festival

NAVCO Internal- OR service

members

External- OR residents

- Messages C-1, C-4

23- 29 MAY

2011

Philadelphia Navy Week &

Milville AAF Show (Tier 1)

NAVCO Internal- PA & NJ SMs

External- PA &NJ

residents

- Messages C-1, C-4

MAY/JUN 2011 Naval Aviation News CONA Internal- Aviators

External- Aviation

Enthusiasts

- Vietnam article (highlighting

specific historical dates 1962-

1986)

- Messages C-3, C-5

Summer 2011 Wings of Gold CONA Internal- Aviators

Exernal- Aviation

Enthusiasts

- Highlight Family legacy

stories

- Messages C-3, C-4

JUN 2011 CNAF/CONA Social Media CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families


- Feature about Korean War

Aviation and Aviators

- Recap of events

- Feature on future pilots from

Academy graduation and

future air crews and

maintainers

4-5 JUN 2011 Rockford AirFest 2011

(Tier 1)

Region PAO Internal- IL service

members

External- IL residents


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11-12 JUN 2011 Evansville Freedom Festival

(Tier 1)

Region PAO Internal- IN service

members

External- IN residents


11-19 JUN 2011 Chattanooga Navy Week and

Riverbend Festival

NAVCO Internal- TN service

members

External- TN residents


16-22 JUN 2011 Davenport Navy Week &

Quad Cities Air Show

(Tier 1)

NAVCO Internal- IA service

members

External- IA residents


25-26 JUN 2011 National Guard Association of

Rhode Island Open House &

Air Show (Tier 1)

Region PAO Internal- RI service

members

External- RI residents


25 JUN – 4 JUL

2011

Chicago Navy Week, Taste of

Chicago, and NSGL

Centennial

NAVCO Internal- IL service

members

External- IL residents


JUL 2011 CNAF/CONA Social Media CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families


- Feature article about Vietnam

Era Aviators and families

- Recap of events

11-17 JUL 2011 Rochester Navy Week & ESL

International Airshow

(Tier 1)

NAVCO, Base

PAOs

Internal- NY service

members

External- NY residents

- Messages C-1, C-5

18-24 JUL 2011 Detroit Navy Week & Thunder

Over Michigan Airshow (Tier

1)

NAVCO, Base

PAOs

Internal- MI service

members

External- MI residents

- Messages C-1, C-5

23-31 JUL 2011 Sacramento Navy Week and

California State Fair

NAVCO Internal- CA service

members

External- CA residents

- Messages C-1, C-5

25-31 JUL 2011 Los Angeles Navy Week and

Summer X Games

NAVCO Internal- CA service

members


- Messages C-1, C-5

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25 JUL – 1 AUG

2011

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh

(Tier 1)

Region PAO Internal- WI service

members

External- WI residents


31 JUL- 8 AUG

2011

Seattle Fleet Week & SeaFair

(Tier 1)

NAVCO, Base

PAOs

Internal- WA service

members

External- WA residents



community


AUG 2011 CNAF/CONA Social Media CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families


- Feature article about Cold

War Era Aviators and families

(E-6, P-3’s, Helo’s)

- Recap of events

8-14 AUG 2011 Fargo Navy Week and Air

Show (Tier 1)

NAVCO Internal- ND service

members

External- ND residents


13-22 AUG 2011 Indianapolis Navy Week and

Indiana State Fair

NAVCO Internal- IN service

members

External- IN residents


26-27 AUG 2011 The Great State of Maine Air

Show (Tier 1)

Region PAO Internal- ME service

members

External- ME residents


29 AUG – 5 SEP

2011

Cincinnati Navy Week and

Riverfest

NAVCO Internal- OH, KY service

members

External- OH, KY

residents


Fall 2011 The Hook - magazine article Editors Internal- Aviators - Historical photos and articles

- Messages C-4, C-6

JUL/AUG 2011 Naval Aviation News CONA Internal- Aviators

External- Military

Enthusiasts

- Modern Naval Aviation/

Desert Storm article

(highlighting specific

historical dates 1987-2011)

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SEP 2011 CNAF/CONA Social Media CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families


- Feature article about Desert

Storm and Kosovo Aviators


3-4 SEP 2011 NAS Pax River Air Expo ’11

(Tier 1)

Base PAOs Internal- MD service

members

External- MD residents



community


6-11 SEP 2011 Omaha Navy Week &

Guardians of Freedom Air

Show (Tier 1)

NAVCO Internal- NE service

members

External- NE residents


8-11 SEP Tailhook Reunion Tailhook POC Internal-Aviators

External-former Aviators


14-18 SEP 2011 National Championship Air

Races (Tier 1)

Region PAO Internal- NV service

members

External- NV residents


17-18 SEP 2011 Memphis AirFest (Tier 1) Base PAOs Internal- TN service

members

External- TN residents


19 SEP- 2 OCT

2011

San Diego Fleet Week &

MCAS Miramar Air Show

(Tier 1)

NAVCO, Base

PAOs

Internal- CA service

members




community


20-22 SEPT 2011 Centennial of Naval Aviation

Symposium

CNAF/CNAL,

CONA

Internal- DOD service

members

External- Regional Public,

Aviation Enthusiasts, DOD

retirees

- Naval Aviation has a rich

tradition, symposium

highlights the history and

achievements in Naval

Aviation

- Message C-6

22 SEPT 2011 Wings over America Golf NAS Oceana Internal- VA service - Message C-6

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Tournament PAO, CNAL members

External- VA residents,

former Aviators

- Messages C-5

20-25 SEP 2011 NAS Oceana Air Show &

AIAA Centennial Convention

(Tier 1)

Base PAOs Internal- VA service

members

External- VA residents



community


24 SEP – 2 OCT

2011

Springfield Navy Week and

The Big-E/ New England Fair

NAVCO Internal- MA service

members

External- MA residents


OCT 2011 CNAF/CONA Social Media CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families


- Feature article about OEF and

OIF aviators


1-9 OCT 2011 Albuquerque Navy Week and

International Balloon Fest

NAVCO Internal- NM service

members

External- NM residents


8-9 OCT 2011 San Francisco Fleet Week

(Tier 1)

NAVCO , Region

PAO

Internal- CA service

members



15-16 OCT 2011 NAS Lemoore Air Show

(Tier 1)

Base PAOs Internal- CA service

members




community


15-24 OCT 2011 Raleigh Navy Week and North

Carolina State Fair

NAVCO Internal- NC service

members

External- NC residents


17-23 OCT 2011 El Paso Navy Week & Amigo

Air Show (Tier 1)

NAVCO, Base

PAOs

Internal- TX service

members



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24-30 OCT 2011 San Antonio Navy Week and

Randolph AFB Airshow

NAVCO Internal- TX service

members



NOV 2011 CNAF/CONA Social Media CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families


- Feature article on the future of

naval aviation and UAV’s.

focus on human aspect


5-6 NOV 2011 NAS Jax, Birthplace of the

Blue Angels Air Show

(Tier 1)

Base PAOs Internal- FL service

members




community


11-12 NOV 2011 Pensacola Homecoming

(Tier 1)

Base PAOs Internal- FL service

members




community


DEC 2011 CNAF/CONA Social Media CONA PAO Internal- SM’s and their

families


- Feature article recapping the

entire Centennial and tossing

to the USMC.

DEC 2011 Rhumb Lines- Wrap up and

segue to Centennial of Marine

Aviation

CONA Internal- Navy Leaders

External- Key Government

Officials

- Wrap up events conducted

and support developed


3 DEC 2011 Washington, DC Closing

Ceremony

CONA Internal- Navy Leaders

External- Key decision

makers

- Wrap up events conducted

and support developed


TBD CONA book release Brad Elward External- General Public - Release date TBD, limited

ability to promote due to

restrictions on advertising.

TBD Wings of Gold Documentary PBS External- General Public - NAVINFO West

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coordinating

TBD IMAX Centennial Film NAVINFO WEST External- General Public - Various proposals in the

works with NAVINFO West

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APPENDIX B: TALKING POINTS

HISTORY / CENTENNIAL

The 100th

Anniversary of Naval Aviation is an extraordinary milestone that gives

the United States Sea Services an opportunity to commemorate the unique

contributions Naval Aviation has made to our National security.

The Centennial will be commemorated with hundreds of air shows, conventions,

flyovers, festivals, tributes and open houses that will take place at the national,

regional and local level.

Honoring Naval Aviation’s 100th year of flight underscores our commitment to

sustaining a Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard responsive to the challenges of

the 21st century.

The invention of flight revolutionized the way wars were fought and allowed for

naval engagement to take place at vast distances, well beyond that of a surface

ship or submarine.

The beginning of Naval Aviation is marked by the Navy’s first requisition by

Capt. Washington Irving Chambers to purchase an aircraft from aviation pioneer

and inventor Glenn H. Curtiss.

The Coast Guard’s introduction to aviation took place in 1903 when the surfmen

from the Kill Devil Hill Life Boat Station of the US Life saving Service provided

the Wright Brothers with additional man power during the pre-launch activities of

that epic flight. They helped transport the Wright biplane to its launch site.

Surfman J.T. Daniels took the only photograph of the event. By act of Congress,

the US Life Saving Service was merged with the Revenue Cutter Service to form

the United States Coast Guard.

One of Glenn H. Curtiss’ pilots, Eugene Ely, proved the concept of shipboard

operations by taking off from a cruiser anchored off the Virginia coast in

November 1910 and landing aboard a cruiser in San Francisco bay January 2010.

In 1944, Frank A. Erickson, the Coast Guard’s first rotary winged aviator,

received a commendation for conducting, in violent winds and snows, the first

lifesaving mission with a helicopter.

History shows that Naval Aviation has been at the cutting edge of aerospace

expeditions, from the first successful crossing of the Atlantic by an aircraft,

exploration of the Arctic and Antarctic, to journeys of discovery into outer space.

Naval, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard Aviation share a long and proud history.

Honoring and preserving it allows the honorable men and women who have

served our country over the past century to continue to offer their strength, zeal

and experience to all of us.

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NAVAL AVIATION TODAY / NAVAL AVIATION’S SINGULARITY

Never has there been a better time to be a part of Naval and Marine Corps

Aviation. In the past 100 years, Naval Aviation has grown from a marginal force

fulfilling a niche role in the nation’s military strategy, to the centerpiece combat

force that is powerfully and uniquely well-suited to conduct expeditionary

operations and lethal sea-based power projection.

The United States Coast Guard is the world’s premiere maritime life saving

agency. Aviation is a key component to the proud past and powerful future of this

organization and has been instrumental in the growth of mission set and capability

in the last century.

The exceptional collection of warfighters, civilian employees, and contractor

personnel in Naval and Marine Corps Aviation define our success. With their

diverse talents Naval and Marine Corps Aviation deters and defeats disruptive

forces that threaten the security of our nation.

The Coast Guard has 11 missions including National Defense. Coast Guard

aviation is deployed around the world conducting counter narcotics and maritime

security missions in support of the Global War on Terror. Alongside Naval assets,

the Coast Guard is instrumental in helping to stem the rising water borne threats

to Homeland and global security.

Naval Aviation today is an essential element of U.S. power. In a century it has

grown from a minor tactical and support capability to a primary instrument of

executing national policy.

Naval and Marine Corps Aviation is an unrivaled maritime force. No other nation

has the comparable aircraft, weapons, systems, or personnel to conduct operations

as successfully using such a wide variety of capabilities.

The intent of Naval Aviation is, along with our coalition partners, to deter

aggression and enable the full spectrum of diplomatic, economic and political

channels to defuse swelling international tension.

Naval Aviation is deployed around the world 24/7, assuring allies, deterring

potential adversaries and forging cooperative partnerships to maintain security at

home and sea.

A strong Navy and Coast Guard are vital to the free flow of trade across oceans.

American’s Navy helps ensure safe passage of goods and ideas around the world.

The Coast Guard’s first response capability is vital to the assurance of our

maritime safety and security.

Today Naval Aviation is comprised of thousands of aircrafts performing diverse

missions that support our national interests around the world.

20

The Navy and Marine Corps are often the first to be called upon in a crisis and the

most versatile and effective arm of these services is Naval Aviation.

The men and women of Naval, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard Aviation are a

diverse, innovative and technically superior force package who train, fight, and

win in a complex and unpredictable global environment.

The Coast Guard has embarked on a modernization program which includes a

broad based upgrade of existing rotary winged aircraft and the purchase of new

fixed wing aircraft. These state of the art systems will further increase the multi-

mission effectiveness of Coast Guard aviation.

The Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard are maritime forces. The planet is a

maritime environment. Our military’s ability to operate and execute in this

environment is vital to our national interests, and it is the unique province of our

seagoing services.

Naval and Marine Corps Aviation possess the combat power required to limit

regional conflicts, deter major power wars, and, in the event that conflict cannot

be avoided, convincingly win those wars.

The Navy and Coast Guard’s airborne drug interdiction capability present a

unified, global front against the threat of narco-terrorism and transnational

smuggling.

The Navy and Coast Guard enjoy a special bond with the communities that host

its bases, air stations, and installations and appreciates the support and hospitality

you have provided us.

NAVAL AVIATION’S ROLE IN MARITIME STRATEGY

Naval Aviation accomplishes a prominent role in every core capability of the

Maritime Strategy – forward presence, deterrence, sea control, power projection,

maritime safety, environmental stewardship, maritime security, and humanitarian

assistance and disaster relief. Individually and collectively, these capabilities are

essential to ensuring the security, prosperity, and vital interests of the United

States and its allies. They are at the heart of U.S. maritime power.

Forward Presence establishes maritime forces in regions throughout the world.

A maritime presence in proximity to areas of interest builds partnerships while

also better preparing the United States to deter and defeat threats should they

arise. The deployability and expeditionary character of Naval Aviation

distinguishes it as the centerpiece of this core capability.

Deterrence is aligned to the national belief that preventing wars is as important as

winning wars. Naval Aviation forces alone can serve effectively as goodwill

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ambassadors and simultaneously anchor an aircraft carrier just offshore to serve

as a display of national determination and unquestioned lethal potential.

Sea Control protects the ability to operate freely at sea. Piracy and the increasing

number of nations possessing submarines threaten freedom of access for all

nations. Surveillance, detection, and attack of coastal, surface, and subsurface

platforms are missions readily executed by Naval Aviation assets in support of

this capability.

Power Projection from the sea is the essential combat element of the Maritime

Strategy. Operating from aircraft carriers, amphibious ships, or forward operating

bases, Navy and Marine Corps forces develop an understanding of an adversary’s

capabilities, possess superior strategy, commit to disciplined training, and have

technological advantages to defeat those who mean the United States and its allies

harm.

Maritime Security is the maintenance of security at sea and the mitigation of

threats short of war. Combating terrorism, piracy, drug trafficking, and other

threats enhance global stability and protect U.S. shorelines. Naval Aviation assets

collaborate with other services and agencies to keep watch, to disrupt, and, when

absolutely necessary, to destroy those aggressors that seek to limit the sanctuary

of the seas for others.

Maritime Search and Rescue is the core mission of the U.S. Coast Guard. Coast

Guard Aviation is recognized worldwide as a leader in the field of airborne search

and rescue and has a long history of partnership with the Navy in both training

and operations. America’s 24/7 SAR responsiveness is key to ensuring maritime

commerce and transportation.

Humanitarian Assistance / Disaster Relief is a human obligation and the

foundation of the American character. The majority of the world’s population

lives within a few hundred miles of the ocean, meaning that access is best

achieved by maritime forces. Bringing aid, offering relief and escape from

disaster sites, or conducting non-combat evacuations from unsafe situations are

results accomplished most effectively through the use of Naval Aviation assets.

FUTURE OF NAVAL AVIATION

Naval Aviation will continue to develop, deliver, and sustain the aircraft,

weapons, and systems our Sailors and Marines need to serve America in defense

of freedom. We embrace the privilege of this awesome responsibility with pride,

determination, and enthusiasm.

Naval and Marine Corps Aviation will adapt to the challenges of a changing

world environment to operate jointly and with partners at sea, on land, and in the

air, space, and cyberspace. Naval Aviation will develop new platforms, sensors,

and weapons to meet future threats with novel capabilities that will replace aging

systems.

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The future of Naval Aviation will consist of carriers and air wings equipped to

deter and to defeat future threats to our national security. On carriers, manned

strike fighters will be complemented by unmanned tactical aircraft. These

advanced aircraft will refuel other aircraft, deliver cargo; gather intelligence,

surveillance, and reconnaissance data; and carry out air-to-air, air-to-surface, and

electronic attack missions. The rotary-wing force will perform critical anti-surface

and anti-submarine warfare, mine countermeasures, and humanitarian assistance.

Construction of Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the lead ship of the new class of

aircraft carriers, began in 2008. Manpower requirements for the Ford class and

their embarked air wings will be reduced by as many as 1,200 Sailors. These

reductions couple with improved reliability and reduced maintenance

requirements for the carrier will enable the Navy to realize more than $5 billion of

cost savings during the life of each ship.

The Coast Guard’s procurement of new manned and unmanned aircraft continues

to strengthen Maritime Domain Awareness. Procurement of Cutters with greater

capability for aviation assets, along with the implementation of a new C4IT SAR

response system, will significantly increase Coast Guard Aviation’s ability to

respond in a timelier manner, decreasing the loss of life and property at sea.

In the next 20 years, new aircraft in many Navy and Marine Corps mission areas

will commence development to replace their aging counterparts and provide the

bridge to the future. The Navy and Marine Corps are committed to marshaling the

resources wisely to acquire the optimum mix of aircraft and weapon systems to

meet the nation’s security needs.

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APPENDIX C: QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q1. Why does the Navy want to commemorate the Centennial of Naval Aviation? A1. Commemorating the 100th anniversary of Naval Aviation honors our rich heritage

and underscores our commitment to sustaining a Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard

responsive to the challenges of the 21st century.

Q2. How were commemoration locations determined?

A2. Many of the airports and airfields were original locations of Naval Aviation

squadrons or training commands and carry with them rich aviation history, such as those

in Pensacola, Fl., and San Diego, Calif. We also took into consideration cost

effectiveness and outreach potential.

Q3. What will these events cost?

A3. Normally occurring and long-standing annual events, such as air shows, are being

used to commemorate the Centennial of Naval Aviation. The activities planned to

observe the 100th

anniversary will be accomplished at minimal cost to taxpayers. Several

volunteer organizations, non-profit groups and organizers will also participate in

Centennial celebrations with separate, non-governmental funds to cover additional costs.

Q4. How is the inception of Naval Aviation relevant today? A4. In 100 years, Naval Aviation has grown into a primary instrument of executing

national policy. The commemoration provides an opportunity for our Sailors, Marines,

Coast Guard personnel, and veterans to honor those who have paved the way as well as

share our rich heritage with the American public and allies. The commemoration honors

our legacy and recognizes the ongoing contributions of Naval Aviation to our country’s

safety, security, and prosperity.

Q5. How can I find more information?

A5. Please visit the Centennial website at

http://www.public.navy.mil/airfor/Pages/home.aspx or contact the Centennial of Naval

Aviation public affairs officer, LCDR Alli Myrick-Ellison, (619) 545-4147,

[email protected].

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APPENDIX D: SAMPLE PRESS RELEASE

NOTE: The following advisory/release should be tailored for use at specific

Centennial events in order to inform the local media and officials.

Base Air Show Highlights Naval Aviation’s Centennial

DATELINE, Xx – [base name] will honor 100 years of Naval flight and celebrate the

unique century-long friendship between Naval Aviation and our local community during

this year’s [air show name] kicking off [date].

May 8, 1911, Navy Capt. Washington Irving Chambers, officer in charge of

aviation, prepared the requisition for the Navy’s first aircraft to be purchased from

aviation pioneer and inventor Glenn H. Curtiss. The requisition of the first aircraft is

considered the beginning of Naval Aviation, which still remains an essential element of

U.S. power, ever present, and continually influencing events in this unsettled world by

engaging forward with our presence and power.

The Centennial will serve as the central theme to this year’s air show with booths,

historical experts, handouts and other materials designed to educate and entertain air

show attendants.

{NOTIONAL} “Naval Aviation has grown from a tactical afterthought and

support capability to a primary instrument of our national security,” said Chief of Naval

Operations Adm. Gary Roughead in an official Naval message. “From the Curtiss A-1

Triad, to the F/A-18 Super Hornet, from the USS Langely (CV 1) to the [USS Ronald

Reagan (CVN 76), Naval Aviation has scored an impressive list of achievements in peace

and war.” [or insert quote from base skipper/air show coordinator.]

The intent of Naval Aviation’s presence is, along with our coalition partners, to deter

aggression and enable the full spectrum of diplomatic, economic and political channels to

defuse swelling international tension. In the 100 years since, Naval Aviation has figured

prominently on both the national and international stage during both peace and wartime

and is emblematic of America’s ingenuity, ability and forward thinking. 2011, marks the

100th Anniversary of Naval Aviation - a milestone unparalleled by any achievement and

worthy of a celebration honored as such.

-- USN --

strategic communication plan - united states · pdf file1 centennial of naval aviation...

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